Employing one aspherical ED glass, one ED glass and three aspherical lens elements, outstanding optical performance is realized. Sharp resolution is retained even in the peripheral areas of the frame throughout the entire zoom range from the maximum aperture. Minimum focus distance of 0.3 m across the zoom range, fine point-image reproduction and high tolerance for backlight with Nano Crystal Coat are also provided, resulting in high image quality for both stills and movies in diverse scenes.

The frequently used, standard focal-length range from wide-angle 24 mm to medium-telephoto 70 mm can effectively cover a wide variety of scenes and subjects. In general shooting from snapshots of everyday life to portraits and landscapes, this lens enables the capture of high-quality images without changing lenses.

The maximum aperture is f/4 at any zoom setting. This enables the use of high-speed shutter without increasing ISO sensitivity even in comparatively dark situations. Also, while many zoom lenses change the maximum aperture according to focal length, this lens permits shooting using the same f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, enabling photographers to reflect their intentions with exposure control. In portrait shooting using a mediumtelephoto 70 mm focal length, it is possible to emphasize the subject by softly blurring the background utilizing natural bokeh characteristics delivered with f/4 aperture..

While maintaining the minimum required size to deliver an extremely high standard of optical performance, this lens provides outstanding portability. The easy-to-carry, approx. 500 g lightweight body employs a retractable lens mechanism that can be set on/off via zoom ring rotation without pressing a button, ensuring remarkable agility for faster shooting compared to conventional retractable-type lenses. Also, A control ring is newly adopted for more comfortable shooting operation. Functions such as focus (M/A), aperture and exposure compensation can be assigned to the ring, ensuring more intuitive, smoother shooting.

Focus breathing (shifting of the angle of view when adjusting focus) is effectively compensated and various sounds (AF drive, diaphragm drive, control ring operation) are reduced. Also, smooth diaphragm control enables the recording of movies with natural transition of image brightness. In addition, smoother image expression can be achieved via the superb operational feel of each operation ring.

• Lens body is designed carefully considering dust- and drip-resistant performance for enhanced reliability • Fluorine coat applied to front lens surface • Highly accurate AF control for both still and movie shooting with higher standards of lens design principles and minutely detailed lens information with high-speed, large-capacity communication • A stepping motor (STM) is employed for quiet and responsive AF control • Electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that accurately controls the aperture for stable aperture control even during continuous shooting